Town of Machias, Maine

Most tourists may only know of Machias as one of the towns they pass on their way to Canada—the border is a mere 35 miles away—but what they don’t know is that there’s more to this little hamlet than just a road sign…and they probably pronounce the town’s name incorrectly, to boot. “Machias” (Muh-chai-uhs) is a rough translation of “bad little falls” in the language of either the Passamaquoddy or Abenaki tribe, depending on who you ask; it refers to the turbulent, sprawling cascade at the town’s center, formerly harnessed to power the mills there.

Exploring Machias Maine

These days, those same falls are more of an attraction than a power source and are the centerpiece of the Bad Little Falls Park. Featuring scenic overlooks and picnic tables, the park is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, a gathering with friends, or perhaps a solitary retreat alongside the sound of the tumbling waters of the Machias River.

Also nearby are Middle River Park and the Machias River Preserve (also known as The Two Rivers Conservation Area), both of which are maintained by the Downeast Coastal Conservancy. Middle River Park offers more than two miles of hiking trails, a first-rate sledding hill, and a kayak/canoe launch; the Machias River Preserve also has hiking trails and is a popular spot for snowshoeing, fishing, picnicking, hunting, and paddling.

And if you don’t have your own canoe or kayak, give the folks at Sunrise Canoe and Kayak a call. They’ll deliver the equipment to your door and you can go where you please…or you can try one of their guided, fully-outfitted river adventures.

If you are familiar with the Bold Coast Scenic Byway—a 125-mile swath of true Down East Maine—then you already know it courses right through the center of Machias. And while this small stretch of the route is certainly worthy of your attention on its own, the breathtaking views that are the hallmark of this iconic drive are well-worth a separate dedicated road trip.

Part of the East Coast Greenway, the Down East Sunrise Trail is a well-tended former railway line, measuring just under 90 miles and open to a broad array of activities, including cycling, horseback riding, ATV-riding, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing—even dog sledding. As always, be sure to check the website for any weather-related closures to the trail before setting out on your adventure.

For a bit of culture and history, the Burnham Tavern Museum is a local gem; designated as one of 21 structures in the U.S. deemed “most significant” to the American Revolution, the tavern is the site of the first naval battle of the American Revolution. Another fascinating historical stop to add to your itinerary is the Centre Street Congregational Church. Built in 1836, the church is listed in the National Registry of Historic Places, is one of Maine’s oldest examples of Gothic Revival-style architecture, and boasts a bell cast in Paul Revere’s foundry.

Shopping in Machias

There are a few noteworthy retail shops to add to your agenda, each unique in its own way. The French Cellar is a specialty shop that carries both imported and local cheeses, over 400 fine wines, and a huge selection of Maine craft beers. Berry Vines Garden Blooms & Unique Finds is a florist, yes…but also an adorable gift shop chock full of home décor, furniture, handcrafted items, gift baskets…far too much to list here.

And the Crow’s Nest Shops provide a collective retail outlet for local artisans of all ilk—pottery, photography, glasswork, woodwork—as well as a fabulous coffee shop, florist, and pre-owned electronics and video games. They even have a UPS shipping counter! The gift shop at The Talbot House Inn—also listed on the National Register of Historic Places—is a nifty find for handcrafted items and antiques…and their bed and breakfast offers a truly special lodging experience with a personal touch.

Lodging in Machias

Machias has several other options for those wanting to stay for a while; the Machias River Inn is dog-friendly, located right on the river, and has both standard rooms and suites on offer. The Bluebird Motel offers guests clean, affordable lodging in a convenient location—right on Route 1—and there is a diner nearby: Tom’s Mini-Mart (which looks like a mere gas station and convenience store—which it is—but also has a fantastic diner in the back). The Margaretta Inn’s updated rooms all feature air conditioning, a Keurig coffee machine, mini-fridge, and microwave, as well as other higher-end amenities.

Dining in Machias

While lacking in the five-star-dining-experience department, Machias provides a solid array of eating options for hungry travelers and residents alike. If you’re craving something in particular, like egg rolls and fried rice (Hing Garden), pizza (Pat’s Pizza), or even schnitzel (Jo’s World Famous Schnitzel Wagon), chances are you’ll be able to track it down.

There are also several establishments with broader menus if you’re not quite sure what part of your palate needs satiating. Helen’s Restaurant is a local favorite and is currently offering dine-in, take-out, delivery, and curbside service for their delicious menu items—and they have a full bar, too. The seasonal Riverside Take-out shack claims to be the “best roadside seafood” in Down East Maine, and they even offer free doggy ice cream! The Bluebird Ranch Restaurant is a great spot for families, and their menu is loaded with home-style, comfort food favorites like Fish ‘n Chips and Stuffed Haddock. The Thirsty Moose Café features a full bar with pub-style menu items, like popcorn chicken, burgers, quesadillas, seafood baskets, pizza, and sandwiches.

Even if your final destination isn’t Machias, it would be a shame not to set aside a day to experience this little slice of authentic Down East Maine. What the town lacks in amenities and urban chic is well offset by its quaint charm and casual, low-key vibe.

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